Mosquitoes pose risk despite dry weather conditions

MEMPHIS, TN — Terminix encourages businesses with outdoor areas to continue to be vigilant about mosquito control even though hotter, dryer weather persists in some areas of the country, according to a press release.

Mosquitoes are very adaptable to changing weather conditions, and even though many areas of the U.S. are experiencing drought conditions this year, experts say the mosquito threat does not go away, the release stated.

"Because we had a mild winter in many areas, population density is up, and mosquitoes will be active as long as the temperature and moisture levels are favorable," said Paul Curtis, B.C.E., director of service quality for Terminix.

"As a general rule, warmer temperatures decrease the time it takes for insects to reproduce, thus producing larger populations. For example, a common mosquito type in California might go through its life cycle in 14 days at 70 degrees, and take only 10 days at 80 degrees," Curtis added.

While extreme heat can impact mosquito populations, in some cases it can just delay infestations, the release noted.

According to the release, businesses can control mosquitoes in commercial areas with the following tips:

• Maintain good sanitation around building structures and customer areas by eliminating areas with standing water
• Minimize the number of stored and decorative items that can catch and hold water in and around the structure
• Clean debris from gutters, and check for standing water on flat roofs of commercial buildings.